Relationships Grow Between Church and Government Authorities in Burundi

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On Friday, April 17, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Bujumbura time, a delegation of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was received in audience by Mr. Désiré Nitunga, Director General in charge of NGOs, Civil Society Organizations, and Religious Denominations at the Ministry of the Interior, Security, and Community Development.

The delegation was composed of the Rwanda Kigali Mission President John Koranteng; the senior missionary couple, Elder and Sister Robinson; the Church’s legal representative, Brother Onésphore Nyandwi; his deputy, Brother Vianney Nshimirimana; as well as the Communications and Publications Officer, Brother Désiré Mpawenayo.

This meeting, held in a formal and respectful setting, had as its primary objective the strengthening of institutional relations between the Church and the Burundian public authorities. It also gave the delegation the opportunity to express its deep gratitude for the efforts made by the Government in favor of peace, security, and community development—essential elements for the proper functioning of the Church’s activities.

During the discussions, President Koranteng introduced the missionaries recently assigned to Bujumbura. He also explained to the Director General the principles and doctrine of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, presenting him with a document highlighting, among other things, the Twelfth Article of Faith, which teaches to “honor, obey, and sustain the law.” This fundamental principle invites members to respect the laws of the country and to actively contribute to peace, order, and good citizenship, in harmony with the teachings of the Gospel.

In this context, he also had the opportunity to present the Book of Mormon as another testament of Jesus Christ and to offer three copies to the Director General, in French, Kiswahili, and Kinyarwanda versions. The meeting, which lasted approximately forty‑five minutes, took place in a cordial and constructive atmosphere marked by mutual listening.

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Later that same day, at 5:00 p.m., a friendly reception was hosted by President Koranteng, in an open and warm setting, with refreshments, fostering free and fraternal exchanges. Among the distinguished guests were the Director General in charge of NGOs, Civil Society Organizations, and Religious Denominations; Sheikh Kassim, Executive Secretary of the Interfaith Council of Burundi (CICB); Sheikh Muzehe Salvator Issa, Second Counselor; as well as the Reverend Pastor Sylvestre Bizimana, Secretary General of the National Council of Churches of Burundi (CNEB). The gathering began with a prayer offered by the Reverend Pastor Bizimana, setting a spiritual and respectful tone.

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During these exchanges, Church leaders expressed their sincere appreciation to the authorities for their support, particularly in obtaining the Church’s official documents. The Mission President warmly thanked the guests for their support and encouraged the continuation of harmonious collaboration.

In return, the Director General praised the Church’s actions within the Burundian community and reaffirmed his commitment to support its initiatives, especially in the area of community development. Also present were the four new full‑time missionaries as well as other Church leaders. In a relaxed and brotherly atmosphere, each participant was able to share personal experiences, thereby strengthening bonds of trust and cooperation.

Overall, the day was marked by rich and constructive exchanges, both during the formal audience and the friendly gathering. It reflects the quality of relations between the Church and national authorities and further strengthens the foundations for lasting collaboration in the service of peace, social cohesion, and community development in Burundi.